Desert and stories

Egypt has had a long tradition of vine growing. Remains of old grapes can be dated back to prehistoric times (el Omari), others give proof of viticulture in the First Dynasty (Abydos) and the Third Dynasty (Sakkara). Grapes were also discovered in tombs of the Middle Kingdom and the New Kingdom. They were part of the offerings to the deceased. The common grape vine vitis vinifera with its culture of vine growing was probably first brought to Egypt from Syria and Palestine. There was both red and white wine.